Remember that Far Side cartoon where the dog talk translator shows that all dog's barks simply mean, "heh!"? Anyway, supposedly there's software out there for your PC that translates what you're dog is saying to you. From a company called Prime Focus:
SmartDog is a PC-based application that enables you and the family to translate hundreds of different barks into English. Unlike other translators, SmartDog doesn't just randomly select a phrase that may not truly match what your dog is trying to say. With your help, SmartDog's ITS systematically learns to recognize your dog's specific vocals, making this a powerful, fun and entertaining tool. Via the included microphone, SmartDog allows you to easily capture and build your dog's vocabulary over time. Once a bark has been translated, the lip-sync dog speaks the English statement and is ready to match it the next time a dog utters that particular bark. It's your love and knowledge that helps SmartDog to truly recognize and understand your dog.SmartDog runs in the background on your PC, so as you're visiting with friends and family, surfing the web, or working on the computer, SmartDog recognizes when a specific bark occurs again. The lip-sync dog then tells you what your pooch is saying. For example, "There's a stranger at the door!" Anyone listening will know instantly what your dog is trying to say, helping to improve your pet's relationship with family, friends, and even strangers.
A talking dog. Interesting idea....
Posted by: Steven Malcolm Anderson at June 9, 2004 12:46 AM